Throughline Episode Summary: "The Conspiracy Files"

Introduction: Unraveling the Roots of Conspiracy Theories

In the Throughline episode titled "The Conspiracy Files", hosts Rund Abdelfattah and Ramtin Arablouei delve deep into the origins and evolution of conspiracy theories, particularly focusing on their surge post-9/11 and their integration with the advent of the internet. The episode explores how skepticism, fueled by real governmental deceptions, morphed into a sprawling conspiracy theory industrial complex that influences public perception and democracy.

Section 1: The Catalyst – September 11, 2001

The episode opens with harrowing personal accounts from individuals directly affected by the 9/11 attacks. Corey Roe, an 18-year-old soldier, recounts the moment he witnessed the World Trade Center towers collapse:

"The reality that we existed in changed on September 11th for everyone on the planet." ([01:57])

These traumatic events sowed seeds of distrust and skepticism towards governmental narratives. Ramtin Arablouei reflects on the heightened awareness of his Muslim American identity post-9/11:

"I was very aware of my identity. That we're different." ([02:47])

Simultaneously, Rund shares observations of his North Jersey Arab American community grappling with fear and confusion, countering sensationalized reports of celebrations:

"They were afraid. They were confused. They had no idea who had done this." ([03:43])

Section 2: The Birth of the Modern Conspiracy Theory

The aftermath of 9/11 saw an explosion of conspiracy theories, amplified by the early internet. Ramtin describes the rise of complex conspiracies that moved mainstream conversations from the fringes:

"The conspiracy theory industrial complex, moving conspiracy theories from the fringes to the mainstream." ([05:48])

Rund discusses the delicate balance between healthy skepticism essential for democracy and excessive doubt that erodes trust:

"Too much skepticism can lead to a world where... we begin to believe everything and nothing." ([06:05])

Section 3: Early Influencers – Bill Cooper and the Rise of Talk Radio

Bill Cooper emerges as a pivotal figure in the 1990s, using talk radio to propagate conspiracy theories. His influential book, Behold a Pale Horse, intertwines various unfounded claims, from government conspiracies with aliens to the origins of AIDS:

"AIDS was created in a lab to wipe out Africa. JFK was assassinated..." ([10:01])

Cooper's radio show, Hour of the Time, becomes a platform for disseminating these theories, tapping into public distrust. His influence peaks until his death in a confrontation with authorities:

"Bill Cooper was called the most dangerous radio host in America." ([20:42])

Section 4: The Digital Revolution – From Bulletin Boards to YouTube

The advent of the internet transformed how conspiracy theories spread. Early bulletin board systems (BBS) like Perinet allowed enthusiasts like Bill Cooper and later Alex Jones to build large followings. Ramtin highlights how these platforms enabled real-time dissemination of unfounded theories:

"Conspiracy theories... with the click of a button." ([14:25])

Alex Jones, inspired by Cooper, leverages the internet to create InfoWars, blending conspiracy content with profitable ventures like dietary supplements and apocalypse gear:

"Apocalypse prep gear, Covert phone... It's profitable to the tune of tens of millions of dollars each year." ([37:39])

Section 5: From Fringe to Mainstream – Influence on Politics and Society

The integration of conspiracy theories into mainstream politics is exemplified by Alex Jones' interactions with Donald Trump. Their alliance during Trump's 2016 campaign helped legitimize conspiratorial thinking in broader political discourse. The emergence of QAnon further exemplifies this trend, leading to significant real-world impacts such as the January 6 Capitol riot:

"QAnon has led to real-world consequences." ([38:57])

Section 6: The COVID-19 Pandemic – A New Era of Misinformation

The COVID-19 pandemic became a fertile ground for conspiracy theories, exacerbated by existing distrust in institutions. Wendy Welch, an author of COVID-19 related conspiracy literature, illustrates how pre-existing skepticism intertwined with pandemic fears:

"Misinformation is spreading fast... It's going to be okay." ([43:10])

Meanwhile, scientists like Alina Chan faced backlash for questioning the lab-leak theory, highlighting the blurred lines between legitimate scientific inquiry and conspiracy endorsement:

"It's better to acknowledge mistakes and learn from them rather than pretend that you're infallible." ([52:44])

Section 7: Confronting the Conspiracy Industrial Complex

The episode also touches on legal victories against outright conspiracies, such as Alex Jones' $1.5 billion lawsuit defeat over the Sandy Hook hoax claims:

"Finally, conceding, the Sandy Hook school shooting did happen." ([53:30])

Corey Roe expresses disillusionment with the pervasive conspiratorial environment, emphasizing a return to personal truths:

"I just try to tune out all the noise." ([39:47])

Conclusion: The Fragile Relationship Between Truth and Society

Throughline concludes by questioning the viability of democracy when truth is compromised. The hosts ponder whether truth remains a cornerstone in an age dominated by conspiracy theories and misinformation:

"Does the actual truth matter anymore? That's a great question." ([40:07])

They underscore the necessity of rebuilding trust and reaffirming the importance of truth to sustain democratic institutions and societal cohesion.

Notable Quotes with Attributions:

• Corey Roe ([01:57]): "The reality that we existed in changed on September 11th for everyone on the planet."

• Rund Abdelfattah ([06:05]): "Too much skepticism can lead to a world where... we begin to believe everything and nothing."

• Bill Cooper ([10:01]): "AIDS was created in a lab to wipe out Africa. JFK was assassinated..."

• Alex Jones ([35:18]): "He really sort of pioneered... getting you to the store..."

• Alina Chan ([52:44]): "It's better to acknowledge mistakes and learn from them rather than pretend that you're infallible."

• Corey Roe ([40:07]): "Does the actual truth matter anymore? That's a great question."

Closing Thoughts:

"The Conspiracy Files" offers a comprehensive exploration of how conspiracy theories have evolved from post-9/11 skepticism into a complex, internet-fueled phenomenon affecting modern society and politics. By intertwining personal narratives, historical events, and the influence of key figures, Throughline paints a nuanced picture of the fragile interplay between truth, trust, and democracy in the contemporary age.